UK outlaws iPod FM device

Use of Griffin Technology's iTrip device has been prohibited by the UK authorities, reports AM Micro.

AM Micro distributes Griffin's products in the UK. It employed a specialist legal team to try to clarify the legal position for iTrip.

iTrip is an FM transmitter for Apple's iPod. It transmits music from the MP3 player on the FM wavelength, which can then be picked up by a radio.

Now UK law-makers have declared that the Wireless Telegraphy Act 1949 forbids the installation or use of radio equipment in the UK unless a license has been granted by the Secretary of State, or a licensing exemption applies. Attempts to gain such permission for iTrip have failed.

"Use of the iTrip in the UK constitutes an offence and can lead to prosecution of the user, dealer and seizure of all iTrips in the UK," writes AM Micro managing director Steve Hawkins. "We believe we have an obligation to protect our dealers and their customers," he said.